The Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) will be offering COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged six months to four years old by appointment only at all six of its offices, beginning on July 28. Bookings open July 28 at 8 a.m., and appointments can be made using the provincial booking system.
The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for children six months to four years old was approved by Health Canada on July 14 and is given in two doses, eight weeks (56 days) apart. Children must be at least six months old at the time of their appointment to receive the vaccination. Moderately to severely immunocompromised children six months to four years old should receive a three-dose vaccine series, with the third dose being administered four to eight weeks after the second dose.
Keep your family safe
COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for children aged six months to four years even if they have had COVID-19 previously, as immunity from COVID-19 infections decreases with time. The vaccine increases and extends the protection against reinfection and serious illness, including hospitalization. Vaccinating a child can also help protect other vulnerable members of the household, such as grandparents or immunocompromised family or friends.
“As a pediatrician, I know how important your children’s health and safety are,” said Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health.
“With Health Canada’s approval of the vaccine, I encourage parents to book their child’s appointment as soon as they are eligible. Although COVID infections are usually mild in children, there have been hospitalizations and severe infections in younger children as well. Vaccination is the best way to provide your child with protection against serious illness from COVID-19.”
Additional booster doses available for moderately to severely immunocompromised youth aged 12 to 17 As of July 28, moderately to severely immunocompromised youth aged 12 to 17 will also be eligible to receive their second booster dose (fifth dose, including the initial three-dose series) if at least six months have passed since they received their first booster (fourth dose). Appointments for children aged 6 months to 4 years old and youth aged 12 to 17 can be booked online at https://covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/ or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900.
Your child’s doctor or primary healthcare provider, as well as your pharmacy, may also be offeringCOVID-19 vaccinations – please contact them directly for more information or to book an appointment. For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine, visit www.EOHU.ca/vaccines.
